The overcast and rainy days of fall can increase stopping distance by up to four times on wet roads. Low tread can cause your vehicle to hydroplane -- surf -- on a film of water, reducing traction. Be sure your wheels are aligned and tires rotated (at least every 6,000 miles or as stated in your vehicle owner's manual or by the tire manufacturer). Your tire service dealer can help you with this.

• Don't overload your car beyond the rated tire load capacity -- you and your luggage add to the overall vehicle weight. Check the door placard or owner's manual for recommended weight.

• Check the alignment and have your wheels rotated. Unbalanced tires or misalignment can cause uneven wear, serious vibrations on the highway, or vehicle stability problems.

• Check tire pressure,including the spare, before a long trip and monthly. Always check tire pressure when the tires are "cold" -- they have not been driven for three hours or more.

Both overinflation and underinflation are bad for your tires -- inflate cold tires to the recommended pressures found on the tire sidwall or driver door placard.

Before a trip, check the tread on your tires to make sure they have plenty of tread.

Learn about buying New Tires or New Wheels and Wheel Combo

Tire or Wheel Problems

Technical Bulletins or Recalls